Dependence

Dependence

God uses chronic pain and weakness, along with other afflictions, as his chisel for sculpting our lives. Felt weakness deepens dependence on Christ for strength each day. The weaker we feel, the harder we lean. And the harder we lean, the stronger we grow spiritually, even while our bodies waste away.

J. I. Packer

There are things you will learn about Me only through your suffering. You’re already learning that when you’re in anguish, you don’t have time or energy for frivolous prayers. In the midst of your hard place, you cry out to Me with your honest frustration, even your anger, and I hear you. On your darkest days when you feel completely out of options, you turn to Me and ask for assistance.

When things are going well, I see you becoming more independent and self-sufficient. But life is filled with problems, and I want you to be prepared when the bottom drops out. Learn the relief of putting your total reliance on Me. Speak these words aloud today: “The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety” (Psalm 18:2). When you learn to depend on Me as your Deliverer, you’ll have more joy; you’ll sleep better; you’ll live unafraid; you’ll be bolder in your faith. The benefit you didn’t expect is that your pain will drive you deeper into the safety of My arms.

We felt we were doomed to die and saw how powerless we were to help ourselves; but that was good, for then we put everything into the hands of God, who alone could save us, for he can even raise the dead.

2 Corinthians 1:9, TLB